Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera - Mint Green vs Polaroid Now+ 3rd Generation I-Type Instant Camera

Design and Aesthetics

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Instant Camera features a compact and cute design, making it highly portable and user-friendly. In contrast, the Polaroid Now+ stands out with its iconic Polaroid aesthetic while incorporating more future-friendly materials. The Instax Mini 12 is available in five vibrant colors, including Mint Green, while the Now+ offers a sleek Arctic Blue option. With a sales rank of 152, the Fujifilm model is positioned as a popular choice among instant cameras, appealing to users who value fun, colorful designs.

Functionality and Features

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 offers a simple and intuitive user experience. Its automatic exposure and flash control ensure bright photos, and the close-up mode is perfect for selfies. Notably, the camera prints high-quality 2” x 3” photos in just about five seconds. On the other hand, the Polaroid Now+ provides advanced features through its Bluetooth connectivity with the Polaroid app, allowing for manual mode, aperture priority, and remote controls. This makes it more versatile for users wanting to explore their creativity. The Now+ also shoots on the iconic i-Type and 600 film, enriching the photographic experience.

Performance and Quality

In terms of performance, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is designed for quick, hassle-free photography. The camera’s ability to produce photos in approximately five seconds after capturing them ensures that users can enjoy their prints without long waits. However, the Polaroid Now+ also emphasizes quality with its optimized two-lens autofocus system, capturing detailed images with classic Polaroid charm. While the Instax Mini 12 has a bestseller rank of 152, the Polaroid Now+ ranks at 7173, indicating that the Fujifilm may enjoy greater popularity in terms of user preference and reliability.

Connectivity and Technology

The Polaroid Now+ excels in connectivity, allowing users to pair their camera with the Polaroid app via Bluetooth. This feature unlocks additional controls and modes that enhance the shooting experience, such as manual settings and remote operation. The Instax Mini 12, however, is designed for simplicity, with no app connectivity but still offers fun features like a built-in selfie mirror. For those who appreciate modern technology, the Now+’s USB-C rechargeable battery, which lasts for over 15 film packs, adds to its convenience, while the Instax Mini 12 runs on AA batteries.

Price and Value

When considering price, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is currently priced at $88.94, making it about 49% cheaper than the Polaroid Now+, which retails at $174.59. This significant price difference positions the Instax Mini 12 as a more budget-friendly option for those new to instant photography or looking for a camera with lower upfront costs. Despite its lower price point, the Instax Mini 12 does not compromise on quality, making it a great value for casual users.

Film and Print Quality

The film used by the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is the INSTAX MINI instant film, specifically designed to produce vibrant, high-quality prints. Each photo develops in approximately 90 seconds, maintaining the excitement of instant photography. The Polaroid Now+ uses the classic i-Type film, which is renowned for its unique aesthetic and larger print size. While both cameras produce instantly gratifying results, the choice of film can greatly impact the user experience, with Instax photos being smaller and often more colorful compared to the vintage look of Polaroid prints.

Target Audience

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is tailored for casual users and those seeking an easy-to-use instant camera that captures fun moments without the need for technical knowledge. It appeals particularly to younger audiences or those new to photography. In contrast, the Polaroid Now+ targets more creative users who want to experiment with advanced settings and features, making it ideal for those interested in artistic photography. This distinction is evident in their respective sales ranks, with the Instax Mini 12 being favored by a broader market segment.

Which should you buy?

Choosing between the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 and the Polaroid Now+ ultimately depends on your photography needs and budget. If you prioritize simplicity, affordability, and vibrant instant prints, the Instax Mini 12 is an excellent choice at $88.94. However, if you seek more advanced features, creative control, and a classic aesthetic, the Polaroid Now+ offers a richer experience despite its higher price of $174.59. Each camera brings unique strengths to the table, catering to different preferences in the instant photography realm.